“Everyone knew who he was and respected him.

Courtesy Houston County Sheriff’s Office

The countrys longest-serving sheriff was laid to rest inGeorgialast week.

Talton had announced last year his intention to retire after his 13th term in office.

Sheriff Talton served more than 50 years as sheriff of Houston County, Georgia.

Credit:Courtesy Houston County Sheriff’s Office

Its time for me to hang it up, Talton told WMAZ last September.

Generations of Georgians, especially here in Houston County, will know his name, Kemp said.

They will benefit from the peace and public safety he maintained for so many years.

He didnt need either, Kemp said, because everyone knew who he was and respected him.

Talton was preceded in death by his wife of 68 years, Peggy Sears Talton.

He leaves behind four children, four grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren.